[[Image:BarossaValleyView.jpg|300px|thumb|right|View over the [[Barossa Valley]]]]

[[Image:BarossaValleyView.jpg|300px|thumb|right|View over the [[Barossa Valley]]]]

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'''South Australia''' [http://www.southaustralia.com/] is a state of Australia in the south of the country between Western Australia to the west and Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria to the east, and south of the Northern Territory. It was first proclaimed a colony in 1834 and unlike other states in Australia was settled entirely by free settlers from Britain from the 1830s onwards. With nearly 1.6 million people, however, the state comprises less than 10% of the Australian population and ranks fifth in population among the states and territories. However, the state covers a vast amount of land area, including some of the most arid parts of the country. With a total land area of 983,482 square kilometres (379,725 sq mi), it is the fourth largest of Australia's six states and two territories. The state also includes Kangaroo Island, Australia's third largest island which lies off the coast of the mainland in the south-east of the state.

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'''South Australia''' [http://www.southaustralia.com/] is a state of Australia in the south of the country between Western Australia to the west and Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria to the east, and south of the Northern Territory. It was first split off from New South Wales and proclaimed a colony in 1834, and unlike the other states in Australia was never a penal colony, instead being settled entirely by free settlers from Britain from the 1830s onwards. Following the British settlement, waves of settlers also began to come in from other parts of Europe, most notably Ireland, Germany, Italy, Greece and Poland. With nearly 1.6 million people, however, the state comprises less than 10% of the Australian population and ranks fifth in population among the states and territories. However, the state covers a vast amount of land area, including some of the most arid parts of the country. With a total land area of 983,482 square kilometres (379,725 sq mi), it is the fourth largest of Australia's six states and two territories. The state also includes Kangaroo Island, Australia's third largest island which lies off the coast of the mainland in the south-east of the state.

South Australia is a state that has remained politically innovative and culturally vibrant throughout its history. It is known for its festivals and fine produce. While South Australia is not the tourist magnet that its northern neighbour is, South Australia offers a different perspective on Australia from many of its different parts. With world-class wine and other produce, friendly people, unspoilt environment and a very relaxed pace of life, it offers the break in Australia that you may have been looking for.

South Australia is a state that has remained politically innovative and culturally vibrant throughout its history. It is known for its festivals and fine produce. While South Australia is not the tourist magnet that its northern neighbour is, South Australia offers a different perspective on Australia from many of its different parts. With world-class wine and other produce, friendly people, unspoilt environment and a very relaxed pace of life, it offers the break in Australia that you may have been looking for.

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==Cities==

==Cities==

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*[[Adelaide]] - the state capital

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*[[Adelaide]] — the state capital

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*[[Coober Pedy]] - opal mining and underground houses

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*[[Coober Pedy]] — opal mining and underground houses

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*[[Mount Gambier]] - in the south-east of the state, home to the famous Blue Lake

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*[[Mount Gambier]] — in the south-east of the state, home to the famous Blue Lake

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*[[Murray Bridge]] - centre of South Australia's farming area

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*[[Murray Bridge]] — centre of South Australia's farming area

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*[[Port Augusta]] - at the top of Spencer Gulf at the very east of the Eyre Peninsula, gateway to the Flinders Ranges

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*[[Port Augusta]] — at the top of Spencer Gulf at the very east of the Eyre Peninsula, gateway to the Flinders Ranges

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*[[Port Lincoln]] - at the bottom of the Eyre Peninsula and a good base for seeing this part of the state

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*[[Port Lincoln]] — at the bottom of the Eyre Peninsula and a good base for seeing this part of the state

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*[[Port Pirie]] - city centred on the mining economy, but centrally located to most attractions in the state

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*[[Port Pirie]] — city centred on the mining economy, but centrally located to most attractions in the state

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*[[Victor Harbor]] - coastal playground to the south of Adelaide

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*[[Oodnadatta]] - desert frontier town, the old Ghan railway use to pass through here

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*[[Whyalla]] - mining town halfway down the Eyre Peninsula

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*[[Victor Harbor]] — coastal playground to the south of Adelaide

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*[[Whyalla]] — mining town halfway down the Eyre Peninsula

==Other destinations==

==Other destinations==

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*[[Coonawarra]] Wine region

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*[[Coonawarra]] — wine region

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*[[Lake Eyre]] - dry lake that occasionally fills up

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*[[Lake Eyre]] — dry lake that occasionally fills up

*[[Nullarbor|Nullarbor Plain]]

*[[Nullarbor|Nullarbor Plain]]

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*[[The Coorong]] - the mouth of the Murray River

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*[[The Coorong]] — the mouth of the Murray River

*[[Kangaroo Island]]

*[[Kangaroo Island]]

*[[Eyre Peninsula]]

*[[Eyre Peninsula]]

*[[Yorke Peninsula]]

*[[Yorke Peninsula]]

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== Itineraries ==

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==Understand==

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*Highways and tracks:

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**[[Birdsville Track]]

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===Time zone===

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**[[Eyre Highway]]

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**[[Oodnadatta Track]]

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**[[Stuart Highway]]

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==Understand==

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'''South Australia''' is 9 hours &amp; 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 17 hours &amp; 30 minutes ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST). Daylight Saving is observed from the first Sunday of October to the first Sunday of April the following year.

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===Time Zone===

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ACST - '''Australian Central Standard Time''', UTC+9.5

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'''South Australia''' is 9 hours & 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 17 hours & 30 minutes ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST). Daylight Saving is observed from the first Sunday of October to the first Sunday of April the following year.

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ACST - '''Australian Central Standard Time''' UTC+9.5

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ACDT - '''Australian Central Daylight Saving Time''', UTC+10.5

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ACDT - '''Australian Central Daylight Saving Time''' UTC+10.5

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==Get in==

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==Get in==

===Quarantine===

===Quarantine===

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You can't bring fruit and vegetables into South Australia. There are disposal bins on roads and at airports, and checks are made - including dogs at airports and on trains and inspection stations on the roads. You will notice the signs and announcements. On-the-spot fines of around $400 are payable if you are caught with fruit or vegetables.

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You cannot bring fruit and vegetables into South Australia. There are disposal bins on roads and at airports, and checks are made - including dogs at airports and on trains and inspection stations on the roads. You will notice the signs and announcements. On-the-spot fines of around $400 are payable if you are caught with fruit or vegetables.

The main routes from New South Wales and Victoria and Western Australia into the State have roadblocks. You must stop and have your vehicle searched. Officers have the power to seize any prohibited item. Roadblocks are found in the following locations:

The main routes from New South Wales and Victoria and Western Australia into the State have roadblocks. You must stop and have your vehicle searched. Officers have the power to seize any prohibited item. Roadblocks are found in the following locations:

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* '''Sturt Highway''' at Yamba between Mildura and Renmark

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* '''Eyre Highway''' at Ceduna

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* '''Sturt Highway''', at Yamba between Mildura and Renmark

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* '''Barrier Highway''' at Oodla Wirra

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* '''Mallee Highway''' between Murrayville and Pinnaroo

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* '''Eyre Highway''', at Ceduna

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* '''Barrier Highway''', at Oodla Wirra

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* '''Mallee Highway''', between Murrayville and Pinnaroo

=== By plane ===

=== By plane ===

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South Australia's main air gateway is '''Adelaide Airport''' ({{IATA|ADL}}) [http://www.aal.com.au/], which has most domestic and all international flights direct into the state. International flights direct into Adelaide include those from [[Denpasar]] in [[Indonesia]], [[Singapore]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] in [[Malaysia]] and [[Auckland]] in [[New Zealand]]. There are regular domestic flights into Adelaide from all Australian capital cities and some interstate regional centres such as [[Mildura]] in Victoria, [[Broken Hill]], [[Kalgoorlie|Kalgoorlie-Boulder]] airport and [[Broome]] in Western Australia, [[Alice Springs]] and [[Darwin]] in the Northern Territory.

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South Australia's main air gateway is '''Adelaide Airport''', ({{IATA|ADL}}) [http://www.aal.com.au/], which has most domestic and all international flights direct into the state. International flights direct into Adelaide include those from [[Denpasar]] in [[Indonesia]], [[Singapore]], [[Kuala Lumpur]] in [[Malaysia]] and [[Auckland]] in [[New Zealand]]. There are regular domestic flights into Adelaide from all Australian capital cities and some interstate regional centres such as [[Mildura]] in Victoria, [[Broken Hill]], [[Kalgoorlie|Kalgoorlie-Boulder]] airport and [[Broome]] in Western Australia, [[Alice Springs]] and [[Darwin]] in the Northern Territory.

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'''Mount Gambier Airport''' ({{IATA|MGB}}) in the far south-east of the state has services from [[Melbourne]] in Victoria, flown by Regional Express (REX).[http://www.rex.com.au/]

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'''Mount Gambier Airport''', ({{IATA|MGB}}) in the far south-east of the state has services from [[Melbourne]] in Victoria, flown by Regional Express (REX).[http://www.rex.com.au/]

=== By train ===

=== By train ===

Adelaide is a hub for '''Great Southern Railways''' [http://www.gsr.com.au] which runs long-distance train services. Note that GSR's services are aimed at tourists and are are a trip in themselves rather than something to use to get to places. All GSR's services pass through or depart from Adelaide. Train services include:

Adelaide is a hub for '''Great Southern Railways''' [http://www.gsr.com.au] which runs long-distance train services. Note that GSR's services are aimed at tourists and are are a trip in themselves rather than something to use to get to places. All GSR's services pass through or depart from Adelaide. Train services include:

Note that South Australia has a very large land area with most settlements in the south-east of the state. Driving to the Northern Territory and Western Australia are very long drives. From Adelaide to Perth is 2,700 km and will take at least 2 days, probably 3. It is the sort of trip that even most locals only do once or twice in their lifetime. Driving from Adelaide to Darwin is just over 3,000 km and travels through some very remote parts of Australia. A minimum of 4 days is recommended. Sydney to Adelaide takes about 18 hours to drive (allow 2-3 days), and Adelaide to Melbourne is around 10-11 hours depending on the route taken. Allow 2 days to admire the towns on the way.

Note that South Australia has a very large land area with most settlements in the south-east of the state. Driving to the Northern Territory and Western Australia are very long drives. From Adelaide to Perth is 2,700 km and will take at least 2 days, probably 3. It is the sort of trip that even most locals only do once or twice in their lifetime. Driving from Adelaide to Darwin is just over 3,000 km and travels through some very remote parts of Australia. A minimum of 4 days is recommended. Sydney to Adelaide takes about 18 hours to drive (allow 2-3 days), and Adelaide to Melbourne is around 10-11 hours depending on the route taken. Allow 2 days to admire the towns on the way.

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The rural South Australian speed limit is 110km/hr. Every town you pass through will have a local speed limit (usually 60km/hr or 80km/hr) and police frequently target drivers at these locations. When crossing state borders also take care to observe the speed limit changes if any.

===By ship===

===By ship===

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The State has a well developed highway system, however in the northern and western regions many roads are un-paved gravel or dirt roads and extra care must be taken. The article on [[Driving in Australia|driving in australia]] has some useful information and guidance. Road traffic laws and regulations [http://www.dtei.sa.gov.au/roadsafety/safe_road_users/visitors_to_SA] are vigourously policed in South Australia and visitors from other states, territories and foreign countries should familiarise themselves with the local conditions and requirements prior to planning a trip by road in South Australia.

The State has a well developed highway system, however in the northern and western regions many roads are un-paved gravel or dirt roads and extra care must be taken. The article on [[Driving in Australia|driving in australia]] has some useful information and guidance. Road traffic laws and regulations [http://www.dtei.sa.gov.au/roadsafety/safe_road_users/visitors_to_SA] are vigourously policed in South Australia and visitors from other states, territories and foreign countries should familiarise themselves with the local conditions and requirements prior to planning a trip by road in South Australia.

*'''Mid North Passenger Services''' (operated by Yorke Peninsular Coaches) [http://www.ypcoaches.com.au/], Operates to Adelaide Central Bus Station and destinations in the Mid North of the state including [[Clare]], [[Burra]], [[Peterborough]], Orroroo, Blyth, and Gladestone.

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*'''Mid North Passenger Services''', (''operated by Yorke Peninsular Coaches''), [http://www.ypcoaches.com.au/]. Operates to Adelaide Central Bus Station and destinations in the Mid North of the state including [[Clare]], [[Burra]], [[Peterborough]], Orroroo, Blyth, and Gladestone.

The state is served by a limited commercial rail passenger network with services only provided to limited stops within South Australia that fall on the national mainline routes. Interstate services from Adelaide such as the Overland to [[Melbourne]] [http://www.railmaps.com.au/vicwest.htm], [[The Ghan]] [http://www.railmaps.com.au/central.htm] to [[Alice Springs]] and [[Darwin]] and the [[Indian Pacific]] that links [[Perth]], Adelaide, [[Broken Hill]] and [[Sydney]] and the [[Southern Spirit]] that links to [[Brisbane]] do stop to set down and pick up passengers at some regional centres on route. Great Southern Rail [http://www.gsr.com.au] operate all these services, ☎ 13 21 47 in Australia ☎+61 8 8213 4592 if calling from outside Australia.

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The state is served by a limited commercial rail passenger network with services only provided to limited stops within South Australia that fall on the national mainline routes. Interstate services from Adelaide such as the Overland to [[Melbourne]] [http://www.railmaps.com.au/vicwest.htm], [[The Ghan]] [http://www.railmaps.com.au/central.htm] to [[Alice Springs]] and [[Darwin]] and the [[Indian Pacific]] that links [[Perth]], Adelaide, [[Broken Hill]] and [[Sydney]] and the [[Southern Spirit]] that links to [[Brisbane]] do stop to set down and pick up passengers at some regional centres on route. Great Southern Rail [http://www.gsr.com.au] operate all these services, ☎ 13 21 47 in Australia, ☎+61 8 8213 4592 if calling from outside Australia.

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'''Adelaide Metro''' operate the remnant suburban and local train and tram services in and around the capital city and details are available in the Adelaide [[Adelaide#Get-around|article]].

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'''Adelaide Metro''', operate the remnant suburban and local train and tram services in and around the capital city and details are available in the Adelaide [[Adelaide#Get-around|article]].

Several historic rail journeys are available. The '''SteamRanger''' preservation group in the Adelaide Hills has restored a number of steam and diesel locomotives for tourist services, and the '''Pichi Richi Railway''' based in Quorn operates on part of the former Central Australia Railway.

Several historic rail journeys are available. The '''SteamRanger''' preservation group in the Adelaide Hills has restored a number of steam and diesel locomotives for tourist services, and the '''Pichi Richi Railway''' based in Quorn operates on part of the former Central Australia Railway.

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:*'''The Cockle Train''', operates year-round between [[Goolwa]] and [[Victor Harbor]] along the route of Australia's first railway. It operates with a steam locomotive in school holidays, and historic diesel locomotives or railcars on all other weekends.

:*'''The Cockle Train''', operates year-round between [[Goolwa]] and [[Victor Harbor]] along the route of Australia's first railway. It operates with a steam locomotive in school holidays, and historic diesel locomotives or railcars on all other weekends.

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:*'''The Southern Encounter''' runs from Mount Barker to Victor Harbor during winter, utilising most of the remaining broad gauge branch from the main Adelaide to Melbourne line.

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:*'''The Southern Encounter''', runs from Mount Barker to Victor Harbor during winter, utilising most of the remaining broad gauge branch from the main Adelaide to Melbourne line.

:*'''The Bugle Ranger''', runs from Mount Barker to Bugle Ranges using a Redhen railcar set. Services operate one Sunday each month from late April to October

:*'''The Bugle Ranger''', runs from Mount Barker to Bugle Ranges using a Redhen railcar set. Services operate one Sunday each month from late April to October

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:*'''The Highlander''' operates from Mount Barker to Strathalbyn using steam locomotives when possible. Operates on the second Sunday of each month from June until the end of November (excluding October).

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:*'''The Highlander''', operates from Mount Barker to Strathalbyn using steam locomotives when possible. Operates on the second Sunday of each month from June until the end of November (excluding October).

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:*'''StrathLink''' - from Goolwa to Strathalbyn using a restored heritage "Brill" railcar. Operates during School Holiday periods.

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:*'''StrathLink''', from Goolwa to Strathalbyn using a restored heritage "Brill" railcar. Operates during school holiday periods.

:*'''Transcontinental''', Quorn to Woolshed Flat. After a brief stop, on to Port Augusta, arriving in time for lunch. There is ample time for a stroll around the nearby area, including a range of food outlets, before the 2.30PM departure back to Quorn.

:*'''Transcontinental''', Quorn to Woolshed Flat. After a brief stop, on to Port Augusta, arriving in time for lunch. There is ample time for a stroll around the nearby area, including a range of food outlets, before the 2.30PM departure back to Quorn.

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:*'''Pichi Richi Explorer''' Quorn to Woolshed Flat (32 km) and return. Uses a historic Barwell Bull railcar 106, built in 1928 that spent most of its working life based at [[Peterborough]] working services between Terowie and Quorn., as well as steam services during school holidays and long weekends using historic South Australian Railways carriages, some dating from the 19th century.

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:*'''Pichi Richi Explorer''', Quorn to Woolshed Flat (32 km) and return. Uses a historic Barwell Bull railcar 106, built in 1928 that spent most of its working life based at [[Peterborough]] working services between Terowie and Quorn., as well as steam services during school holidays and long weekends using historic South Australian Railways carriages, some dating from the 19th century.

:*'''Afghan Express''', turns the clock back to the 1930s when the famous old Ghan travelled through the Pichi Richi Pass. Wherever possible, the Afghan Express uses distinctive timber-bodied carriages built in the late 1920s for the narrow gauge old Ghan train service, and restored old Ghan steam locomotive NM25. The Afghan Express is the name railwaymen gave to the passenger train that ran from Terowie to Oodnadatta, through Quorn, in 1923.

:*'''Afghan Express''', turns the clock back to the 1930s when the famous old Ghan travelled through the Pichi Richi Pass. Wherever possible, the Afghan Express uses distinctive timber-bodied carriages built in the late 1920s for the narrow gauge old Ghan train service, and restored old Ghan steam locomotive NM25. The Afghan Express is the name railwaymen gave to the passenger train that ran from Terowie to Oodnadatta, through Quorn, in 1923.

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The state also has a General Aviation sector including charter operators and wet lease operators such as National Jet Systems ''Cobham'' [http://www.nationaljet.com.au] and other smaller operators that service the airline industry, private individuals, tourism and the fly-in, fly-out services for the mining, oil and gas production industries active in the state.

The state also has a General Aviation sector including charter operators and wet lease operators such as National Jet Systems ''Cobham'' [http://www.nationaljet.com.au] and other smaller operators that service the airline industry, private individuals, tourism and the fly-in, fly-out services for the mining, oil and gas production industries active in the state.

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Parafield Airport ({{IATA|none}}), (ICAO: YPPF) is the states principal General aviation airport. General aviation services including charter operations are operated from both Adelaide Airport ({{IATA|ADL}}) in West Beach and Parafield Airport in the suburb of Parafield, 18 km north of the Adelaide Central business district (CBD) and adjacent to the Mawson Lakes campus of the University of South Australia. Parafield Airport is Adelaide's second airport and the fifth busiest airport in Australia by aircraft movements.

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'''Parafield Airport''', ({{IATA|none}}, {{ICAO|YPPF}}) is the states principal ''general aviation'' airport. General aviation services including charter operations are operated from both Adelaide Airport ({{IATA|ADL}}) in West Beach and Parafield Airport in the suburb of Parafield, 18 km north of the Adelaide Central business district (CBD) and adjacent to the Mawson Lakes campus of the University of South Australia. Parafield Airport is Adelaide's second airport and the fifth busiest airport in Australia by aircraft movements.

:*'''Sealink''' [http://www.sealink.com.au/] to Kangaroo Island connects [[Cape Jervis]] on the Fleurieu Peninsula, and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Ferries carry cars and passengers. Bus links are provided to [[Adelaide]] on the mainland and to [[Kingscote]] on Kangaroo Island.

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:*'''Sealink''', [http://www.sealink.com.au/] to Kangaroo Island connects [[Cape Jervis]] on the Fleurieu Peninsula, and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Ferries carry cars and passengers. Bus links are provided to [[Adelaide]] on the mainland and to [[Kingscote]] on Kangaroo Island.

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:*'''SeaSA''' (Sea SA Car & Passenger Ferries) [http://www.seasa.com.au] will commence their ferry service between [[Wallaroo]] on Yorke Peninsula and [[Lucky Bay]] on Eyre Peninsula from mid-2011. The service will carry cars and passengers.

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:*'''SeaSA''', (''Sea SA Car &amp; Passenger Ferries''), [http://www.seasa.com.au], planned to commence their ferry service between [[Wallaroo]] on Yorke Peninsula and [[Lucky Bay]] on Eyre Peninsula from mid-2011. Construction of the vessel the ''Aurora'', has slowed due to difficulties experienced by the ship-builders, based in Indonesia. When the Aurora enters service it will carry cars and passengers.

South Australia is home to [[Kangaroo Island]] , an internationally renowned wildlife haven.

South Australia is home to [[Kangaroo Island]] , an internationally renowned wildlife haven.

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It is easy to navigate your way around South Australia, with most of the regions just an hour or two drive from Adelaide.

It is easy to navigate your way around South Australia, with most of the regions just an hour or two drive from Adelaide.

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===Itineraries===

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*Highways and tracks:

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:*[[Birdsville Track]]

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:*[[Eyre Highway]]

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:*[[Oodnadatta Track]]

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:*[[Stuart Highway]]

==Do==

==Do==

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=== Beer ===

=== Beer ===

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* '''Coopers Beer''' is an icon of South Australia. It is often described as the biggest small brewery in Australia. It is still family-owned. All Coopers products claim to be made by "natural" methods. There is a range of products from crisp lager styles to dark stout. South Australian pubs will often have Coopers Pale Ale on tap, which while not as distinctive as a craft beer, certainly gives the beer aficionado a tasty beer option not widely available in other states.

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* '''Coopers Beer''', is an icon of South Australia. It is often described as the biggest small brewery in Australia. It is still family-owned. All Coopers products claim to be made by "natural" methods. There is a range of products from crisp lager styles to dark stout. South Australian pubs will often have Coopers Pale Ale on tap, which while not as distinctive as a craft beer, certainly gives the beer aficionado a tasty beer option not widely available in other states.

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* '''West End''' is the local mass produced lager, on tap just about everywhere.

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* '''West End''', is the local mass produced lager, on tap just about everywhere.

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* '''Southwark Premium''' is also produced by mass produced Lion Nathan, but at a smaller brewery in Thebarton. Arguably one of the best brews produced in Australia by the mega-brewers.

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* '''Southwark Premium''', is also produced by mass produced Lion Nathan, but at a smaller brewery in Thebarton. Arguably one of the best brews produced in Australia by the mega-brewers.

Beer measures in South Australia are the '''schooner''' and the '''pint'''. A schooner is a smaller measure, known variously as a ''middy'' or a ''pot'' elsewhere in Australia. A pint isn't a pint at all, and is a larger size known as a ''schooner'' everywhere else in Australia. In most pubs in SA a ''pint of pale'' will return you a reasonable measure of Coopers Pale Ale.

Beer measures in South Australia are the '''schooner''' and the '''pint'''. A schooner is a smaller measure, known variously as a ''middy'' or a ''pot'' elsewhere in Australia. A pint isn't a pint at all, and is a larger size known as a ''schooner'' everywhere else in Australia. In most pubs in SA a ''pint of pale'' will return you a reasonable measure of Coopers Pale Ale.

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*'''[[Barrier Highway]]''' to [[Broken Hill]] and on to western [[New South Wales]]

*'''[[Barrier Highway]]''' to [[Broken Hill]] and on to western [[New South Wales]]

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*'''[[Birdsville Track]]''' to [[Birdsville]] and on to [[Queensland]] and the [[Simpson Desert]]

*'''[[Birdsville Track]]''' to [[Birdsville]] and on to [[Queensland]] and the [[Simpson Desert]]

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*'''[[Eyre Highway]]''' (''National Route 1'' A1) to the [[Nullarbor|Nullarbor Plain]], [[Eucla]] and on to [[Western Australia]]

*'''[[Eyre Highway]]''' (''National Route 1'' A1) to the [[Nullarbor|Nullarbor Plain]], [[Eucla]] and on to [[Western Australia]]

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*'''[[Eyre Peninsula]]''' and on to the Great Australian Bight

*'''[[Eyre Peninsula]]''' and on to the Great Australian Bight

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*'''[[Flinders Ranges]]''' and the [[Gammon Ranges]]

*'''[[Flinders Ranges]]''' and the [[Gammon Ranges]]

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*'''[[Outback (South Australia)|Outback]]''' South Australia with the [[Woomera]] rocket range and [[Lake Eyre]], a dry lake that occasionally fills up

*'''[[Outback (South Australia)|Outback]]''' South Australia with the [[Woomera]] rocket range and [[Lake Eyre]], a dry lake that occasionally fills up

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*'''[[Marree]]''' and then [[Birdsville]] in south western [[Queensland]] and on to [[Mount Isa]]

*'''[[Marree]]''' and then [[Birdsville]] in south western [[Queensland]] and on to [[Mount Isa]]

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*'''[[Marree]]''' and then onto the [[Oodnadatta Track]] past the far southern reaches of Lake Eyre to [[Oodnadatta]] and then join the Stuart Hwy to [[Alice Springs]]

*'''[[Marree]]''' and then onto the [[Oodnadatta Track]] past the far southern reaches of Lake Eyre to [[Oodnadatta]] and then join the Stuart Hwy to [[Alice Springs]]

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*'''[[Ouyen Highway]]''' to Victoria and on to [[Albury]]/[[Wodonga]]

*'''[[Ouyen Highway]]''' to Victoria and on to [[Albury]]/[[Wodonga]]

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*'''[[Princes Highway]]''' (''National Route 1'' B1) to the southeast of the state, the [[Coonawarra]] wine region in the south east of the state, [[Mount Gambier]] and on to [[Victoria]]'''

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*'''[[Princes Highway]]''' (''National Route 1'' B1) to the southeast of the state, the [[Coonawarra]] wine region in the south east of the state, [[Mount Gambier]] and on to [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]]'''

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*'''[[Stuart Highway]]''', [[Coober Pedy]] with its opal mining and underground houses, and on to [[Alice Springs]] and the [[Northern Territory]]

*'''[[Stuart Highway]]''', [[Coober Pedy]] with its opal mining and underground houses, and on to [[Alice Springs]] and the [[Northern Territory]]

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*'''[[Sturt Highway]]''' (''National Route'' A87} and on to the [[Riverland]], [[Mildura]], [[Victoria]] and [[New South Wales]]

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*'''[[Sturt Highway]]''' (''National Route'' A87} and on to the [[Riverland]], [[Mildura]], [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]] and [[New South Wales]]

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*'''[[Dukes Highway]]''' (''National Route'' A8) ''([[Western Highway]])'' to [[Bordertown]] and on to [[Ballarat]] and [[Melbourne]]

*'''[[Dukes Highway]]''' (''National Route'' A8) ''([[Western Highway]])'' to [[Bordertown]] and on to [[Ballarat]] and [[Melbourne]]

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*'''[[The Coorong]]''' at the mouth of the [[Murray River]] and on to the [[Limestone Coast]] including the [[Coonawarra]], [[Robe]] and [[Mount Gambier]] then on to the [[Great Ocean Road]] in [[Victoria]]

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*'''[[The Coorong]]''' at the mouth of the [[Murray River]] and on to the [[Limestone Coast]] including the [[Coonawarra]], [[Robe]] and [[Mount Gambier]] then on to the [[Great Ocean Road]] in [[Victoria (state)|Victoria]]

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*'''[[Yorke Peninsula]]'''

*'''[[Yorke Peninsula]]'''

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*'''[[Kangaroo Island]]''', Australia's 3rd largest island, due south from Yorke Peninsula and accessed by aircraft from Adelaide or by ferry across the Backstairs passage from [[Cape Jervis]] on [[Fleurieu Peninsula]]

*'''[[Kangaroo Island]]''', Australia's 3rd largest island, due south from Yorke Peninsula and accessed by aircraft from Adelaide or by ferry across the Backstairs passage from [[Cape Jervis]] on [[Fleurieu Peninsula]]

Revision as of 02:45, 17 January 2013

South Australia[3] is a state of Australia in the south of the country between Western Australia to the west and Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria to the east, and south of the Northern Territory. It was first split off from New South Wales and proclaimed a colony in 1834, and unlike the other states in Australia was never a penal colony, instead being settled entirely by free settlers from Britain from the 1830s onwards. Following the British settlement, waves of settlers also began to come in from other parts of Europe, most notably Ireland, Germany, Italy, Greece and Poland. With nearly 1.6 million people, however, the state comprises less than 10% of the Australian population and ranks fifth in population among the states and territories. However, the state covers a vast amount of land area, including some of the most arid parts of the country. With a total land area of 983,482 square kilometres (379,725 sq mi), it is the fourth largest of Australia's six states and two territories. The state also includes Kangaroo Island, Australia's third largest island which lies off the coast of the mainland in the south-east of the state.

South Australia is a state that has remained politically innovative and culturally vibrant throughout its history. It is known for its festivals and fine produce. While South Australia is not the tourist magnet that its northern neighbour is, South Australia offers a different perspective on Australia from many of its different parts. With world-class wine and other produce, friendly people, unspoilt environment and a very relaxed pace of life, it offers the break in Australia that you may have been looking for.

Regions

South Australia covers a vast amount of area, from coastal towns to arid desert. The more settled areas are in the south east of the state, hence the smaller regions around that area.

Adelaide and surrounds (Adelaide, Adelaide Hills)Adelaide, the state's capital and its surrounds have plenty to offer for tourists and travellers. The Adelaide Hills surround Adelaide on the eastern side and have small villages with lots of history and lots of natural wonders.

Winery areas (Barossa Valley, Clare Valley, McLaren Vale)The home of some of Australia's best wines, the Barossa Valley, the McLaren Vale and the lesser-known Clare Valleys are the reason why many travel to South Australia. Besides wines, there's lots of history to see here too.

Fleurieu PeninsulaSouth of Adelaide, the gateway to Kangaroo Island and home to coastal villages where you can escape to.

Kangaroo IslandOff the coast of mainland Australia, Australia's third-biggest island contains a vast amount of natural beauty unique to this part of Australia.

Yorke PeninsulaWhere South Australians go for their holidays. Enjoy beaches, national parks, and more.

Eyre PeninsulaWhere 2,000 kilometres of coastline and spectacular scenery meets treeless plains and desert. Home to the cities of Port Lincoln and Whyalla.

Flinders Ranges and OutbackThe Flinders Ranges are home to Wilpena Pound, a spectacular natural amphiteatre and a great base for walking and exploring. The Southern Flinders Ranges extend down toward the east of the city of Port Augusta and include the 6,000 hectare Mount Remarkable National Park. In the north the Simpson Desert also presents its own adventures and opportunities.

Other destinations

Understand

Time zone

South Australia is 9 hours & 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time and 17 hours & 30 minutes ahead of Pacific Standard Time (PST). Daylight Saving is observed from the first Sunday of October to the first Sunday of April the following year.

ACST - Australian Central Standard Time, UTC+9.5

ACDT - Australian Central Daylight Saving Time, UTC+10.5

Get in

Quarantine

You cannot bring fruit and vegetables into South Australia. There are disposal bins on roads and at airports, and checks are made - including dogs at airports and on trains and inspection stations on the roads. You will notice the signs and announcements. On-the-spot fines of around $400 are payable if you are caught with fruit or vegetables.

The main routes from New South Wales and Victoria and Western Australia into the State have roadblocks. You must stop and have your vehicle searched. Officers have the power to seize any prohibited item. Roadblocks are found in the following locations:

Mount Gambier Airport, (IATA: MGB) in the far south-east of the state has services from Melbourne in Victoria, flown by Regional Express (REX).[5]

By train

Adelaide is a hub for Great Southern Railways[6] which runs long-distance train services. Note that GSR's services are aimed at tourists and are are a trip in themselves rather than something to use to get to places. All GSR's services pass through or depart from Adelaide. Train services include:

The Indian Pacific, (between Perth & Sydney, normally twice a week in each direction)

The Ghan, (between Darwin and Adelaide, twice a week in each direction)

The Overland, (between Melbourne and Adelaide, three times a week in each direction)

From Adelaide, Brisbane can be accessed by the Indian Pacific to Sydney and changing for the CountryLink XPT service to Brisbane.

V/Line have a daily coach service from Adelaide connecting to the Countrylink XPT Service in Albury to Sydney.

By car

There are main road connections through to the other states and territories. The main routes are:

From New South Wales:

via the Barrier Highway (A32), west of Broken Hill

From Victoria:

via the Sturt Highway (A20), east of Yamba

via the Mallee Highway (B12), east of Pinnaroo

via the Dukes Highway (A8), east of Bordertown

via the Princes Highway (A1), east of Mount Gambier (coastal road)

From the Northern Territory:

via the Stuart Highway (A87)

From Western Australia:

via the Eyre Highway (A1)

Note that South Australia has a very large land area with most settlements in the south-east of the state. Driving to the Northern Territory and Western Australia are very long drives. From Adelaide to Perth is 2,700 km and will take at least 2 days, probably 3. It is the sort of trip that even most locals only do once or twice in their lifetime. Driving from Adelaide to Darwin is just over 3,000 km and travels through some very remote parts of Australia. A minimum of 4 days is recommended. Sydney to Adelaide takes about 18 hours to drive (allow 2-3 days), and Adelaide to Melbourne is around 10-11 hours depending on the route taken. Allow 2 days to admire the towns on the way.

The rural South Australian speed limit is 110km/hr. Every town you pass through will have a local speed limit (usually 60km/hr or 80km/hr) and police frequently target drivers at these locations. When crossing state borders also take care to observe the speed limit changes if any.

By ship

Adelaide's Overseas Passenger Terminal is at Outer Harbor on the LeFevre Peninsula in the north of Adelaide. Visiting cruise ships often dock here.

Get around

By car

The State has a well developed highway system, however in the northern and western regions many roads are un-paved gravel or dirt roads and extra care must be taken. The article on driving in australia has some useful information and guidance. Road traffic laws and regulations [11] are vigourously policed in South Australia and visitors from other states, territories and foreign countries should familiarise themselves with the local conditions and requirements prior to planning a trip by road in South Australia.

Mid North Passenger Services, (operated by Yorke Peninsular Coaches), [15]. Operates to Adelaide Central Bus Station and destinations in the Mid North of the state including Clare, Burra, Peterborough, Orroroo, Blyth, and Gladestone.

By train

The state is served by a limited commercial rail passenger network with services only provided to limited stops within South Australia that fall on the national mainline routes. Interstate services from Adelaide such as the Overland to Melbourne[17], The Ghan[18] to Alice Springs and Darwin and the Indian Pacific that links Perth, Adelaide, Broken Hill and Sydney and the Southern Spirit that links to Brisbane do stop to set down and pick up passengers at some regional centres on route. Great Southern Rail [19] operate all these services, ☎ 13 21 47 in Australia, ☎+61 8 8213 4592 if calling from outside Australia.

Adelaide Metro, operate the remnant suburban and local train and tram services in and around the capital city and details are available in the Adelaide article.

Several historic rail journeys are available. The SteamRanger preservation group in the Adelaide Hills has restored a number of steam and diesel locomotives for tourist services, and the Pichi Richi Railway based in Quorn operates on part of the former Central Australia Railway.

SteamRanger Heritage Railway, ☎+618 8263 5621, 1300 655 991 ([email protected], fax: +61 8 8391 1933), [1]. 8.30AM-5.30PM, M-F, 9AM-5PM, Sat. This historical society operates a number of different heritage steam and diesel hauled tourist trains between Mt Barker in the Adelaide Hills, the southern Mt Lofty Ranges, Strathalbyn and the coastal holiday towns of Goolwa, Port Elliot and Victor Harbor. Trains operate on up to 140 days a year and are manned by volunteers from the Australian Railway Historical Society, who are also responsible for maintenance of the rail line and the heritage locomotives and carriages. Cockle Train, Bugle Ranger and Strathlink services do not require pre-booking, and tickets can be purchased at the station on the day of travel.

The Cockle Train, operates year-round between Goolwa and Victor Harbor along the route of Australia's first railway. It operates with a steam locomotive in school holidays, and historic diesel locomotives or railcars on all other weekends.

The Southern Encounter, runs from Mount Barker to Victor Harbor during winter, utilising most of the remaining broad gauge branch from the main Adelaide to Melbourne line.

The Bugle Ranger, runs from Mount Barker to Bugle Ranges using a Redhen railcar set. Services operate one Sunday each month from late April to October

The Highlander, operates from Mount Barker to Strathalbyn using steam locomotives when possible. Operates on the second Sunday of each month from June until the end of November (excluding October).

StrathLink, from Goolwa to Strathalbyn using a restored heritage "Brill" railcar. Operates during school holiday periods.

Transcontinental, Quorn to Woolshed Flat. After a brief stop, on to Port Augusta, arriving in time for lunch. There is ample time for a stroll around the nearby area, including a range of food outlets, before the 2.30PM departure back to Quorn.

Pichi Richi Explorer, Quorn to Woolshed Flat (32 km) and return. Uses a historic Barwell Bull railcar 106, built in 1928 that spent most of its working life based at Peterborough working services between Terowie and Quorn., as well as steam services during school holidays and long weekends using historic South Australian Railways carriages, some dating from the 19th century.

Afghan Express, turns the clock back to the 1930s when the famous old Ghan travelled through the Pichi Richi Pass. Wherever possible, the Afghan Express uses distinctive timber-bodied carriages built in the late 1920s for the narrow gauge old Ghan train service, and restored old Ghan steam locomotive NM25. The Afghan Express is the name railwaymen gave to the passenger train that ran from Terowie to Oodnadatta, through Quorn, in 1923.

Note: The National Railway Museum [20] is the largest undercover railway museum in Australia and is situated in Port Adelaide.

The two main regional operators in South Australia are Rex Regional express [21] and QantasLink [22].

The state also has a General Aviation sector including charter operators and wet lease operators such as National Jet Systems Cobham[23] and other smaller operators that service the airline industry, private individuals, tourism and the fly-in, fly-out services for the mining, oil and gas production industries active in the state.

Parafield Airport, (IATA: none, ICAO: YPPF) is the states principal general aviation airport. General aviation services including charter operations are operated from both Adelaide Airport (IATA: ADL) in West Beach and Parafield Airport in the suburb of Parafield, 18 km north of the Adelaide Central business district (CBD) and adjacent to the Mawson Lakes campus of the University of South Australia. Parafield Airport is Adelaide's second airport and the fifth busiest airport in Australia by aircraft movements.

By ship

Sealink, [24] to Kangaroo Island connects Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula, and Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Ferries carry cars and passengers. Bus links are provided to Adelaide on the mainland and to Kingscote on Kangaroo Island.

SeaSA, (Sea SA Car & Passenger Ferries), [25], planned to commence their ferry service between Wallaroo on Yorke Peninsula and Lucky Bay on Eyre Peninsula from mid-2011. Construction of the vessel the Aurora, has slowed due to difficulties experienced by the ship-builders, based in Indonesia. When the Aurora enters service it will carry cars and passengers.

By bicycle

South Australia has a vibrant bicycle culture and the capital city of Adelaide has many established cycle paths and bicycle travel networks [26] and regional trails. [27] Adelaide and regional cities have well stocked bicycle shops [28] and many clubs and associations.
In Adelaide the City Council provide Free City Bikes [29] at several locations.

By taxi

South Australia has a number of taxi companies that serve both the main city of Adelaide, regional cities and regional areas. [30]

See

Remarkable Rocks on Kangaroo Island

South Australia is home to Kangaroo Island , an internationally renowned wildlife haven.

It is also known for its wine. The Barossa Valley is Australia’s richest and best-known wine region. Premium wines, five-star restaurants and cellar doors abound among the hills and vineyards. Local winemakers include household names such as Seppelt, Penfolds and Peter Lehmann.

South Australia also offers other world-class wine regions, including the Clare Valley [31], McLaren Vale and Coonawarra.

Visit the world-heritage listed Naracoorte Caves, or awesome Wilpena Pound in the Flinders Ranges – one of Australia's first official national landscapes.

Swim with wild sea lions at Baird Bay on Eyre Peninsula , dolphins at Glenelg, and Great White Sharks at Port Lincoln.

South Australia is also known for its exciting events, like the international cycling race Tour Down Under [32]. Lance Armstrong made it his comeback race in 2009. Adelaide hosts the Clipsal 500 [33], a thrilling V8 race through a city circuit. The Adelaide Fringe [34] is an annual feast of comedy, music, theatre and fun. And the fabulous and captivating Adelaide Festival of Arts [35]takes place every second year.

Itineraries

Do

Diving

While tropical dives sites like the Great Barrier Reef or those in Southeast Asia are more popular, those who are more adventurous should consider diving in South Australia, which offers some very good temperate dive sites. Those of particular interst include Rapid Bay, which home to leafy sea dragons, a type of seahorse which is only found in the temperate waters of Australia.

Eat

South Australia has a good reputation for high quality fresh food and produce.

The Adelaide Central Market [36] is in the city centre just to the west of Victoria Square and has an enduring reputation for fresh market produce as well as cheeses, smallgoods, fresh seafood, fresh butchered as well as processed meats and a huge range of culinary speciality items bearing an Australian, European and Asian food heritage. The Central Market precinct is the location of Adelaide's small Chinatown and has many Asian food outlets and restaurants. Many cafes, restaurants and retail food outlets line the streets around the Market complex.

The official opening of the Adelaide Central Market was on 22 January 1870. The Central Market was open on Tuesdays and Saturdays with 50 to 100 produce carts. The market sold vegetables, fruit, hay, fish and game meats. On 8 February 1900 the first stone was laid to build the current Central Market façade, which still stands today. In the same year a 40 meter veranda was added.

The state produces citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, grapefruit, stone fruits such a nectarines, peaches and plums, apples, pears, and table grapes such as sultana and muscatel.

Wheat, barley and oats are staple grain crops, legumes such as peas and many bean varieties are also produced. The state has an extensive market garden industry growing a wide range of vegetables in all seasons. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are grown near Adelaide and the state has a vibrant high quality olive oil industry.

Seafood is both farmed in sea-water pens, grown in onshore tanks and caught in the wild by line fishing, trolling and trawling. South Australia has a well developed tuna, scale fish, oyster, craysish (lobster) and abalone industry. The cold fresh waters of the Southern Ocean and the two gulfs has historically been bountiful but due to overfishing stringent controls have been brought to bear upon both commercial and recreational fishing. Historically, inland waterways such as the Murray river and the Coorong were also highly productive but have declined drastically due to environmental impacts and degradation.

The state also has a highly developed viticulture and wine making tradition and the industry produces many wine varieties for local, national and international markets.

South Australia also has a good reputation for rearing beef cattle for veal and beef meats, dairy production including milks, yoghurts, fresh and matured cheeses. The state has a strong history of sheep meat production including mutton and lamb. Local game meats include kangaroo and rabbits, which are wild harvested, normally in the mid-north and far north of the state. The poultry industry is well developed and provides both battery farm, free range and 'organic' eggs, chicken, ducks and turkeys.

Adelaide especially has a good reputation for restaurant and cafe dining. Other areas, including the Clare Valley, Barossa Valley and Kangaroo Island have strong regional cafe and restaurant industries that exploit the high quality fresh produce available in those areas.

The ethnic culinary influences and production skills borne by many generations of immigration has helped the development of the food and produce industry in South Australia. Italian, Greek, Polish, German, Malaysian, Chinese and Vietnamese immigrants to the state have had particularly strong influence on the development of the states food culture.

Drink

Beer

Coopers Beer, is an icon of South Australia. It is often described as the biggest small brewery in Australia. It is still family-owned. All Coopers products claim to be made by "natural" methods. There is a range of products from crisp lager styles to dark stout. South Australian pubs will often have Coopers Pale Ale on tap, which while not as distinctive as a craft beer, certainly gives the beer aficionado a tasty beer option not widely available in other states.

West End, is the local mass produced lager, on tap just about everywhere.

Southwark Premium, is also produced by mass produced Lion Nathan, but at a smaller brewery in Thebarton. Arguably one of the best brews produced in Australia by the mega-brewers.

Beer measures in South Australia are the schooner and the pint. A schooner is a smaller measure, known variously as a middy or a pot elsewhere in Australia. A pint isn't a pint at all, and is a larger size known as a schooner everywhere else in Australia. In most pubs in SA a pint of pale will return you a reasonable measure of Coopers Pale Ale.